At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and enhance communications for our growing Trust.
- Company: Join Achieve and Learn Trust, a forward-thinking educational organisation.
- Benefits: Flexible working, strong support for staff wellbeing, and access to pension schemes.
- Other info: Be part of a collaborative team during an exciting growth phase.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education while making a real impact on people's lives.
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 or willingness to obtain; senior HR leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 51356 - 54495 £ per year.
Required as soon as possible
NJC Band 11 Points 40-43 (Actual Salary £51,356 - £54,495) Pay award pending.
36.25 hours per week (08:00 – 16:00), full-time (flexible, hybrid working available) Permanent
Location: Trust Hub at Altrincham College, Trafford LA, South Manchester (with travel to member schools)
The Opportunity
Our Trust is seeking an exceptional HR and Communications professional for the newly created role of Director of People. This is a rare opportunity to join us at a defining moment in our journey. With currently only two Secondary schools, the Trust has ambitious plans for significant growth over the next two years. We are looking for a leader who can build the robust people infrastructure required to support this expansion, ensuring we remain "Better, Together" as our community grows. We are also seeking someone who has communications experience, especially in creating and enhancing an online presence to support our PR and Marketing strategy.
The Role
This is both a strategic and hands-on leadership role. You will be responsible for developing a Trust-wide People Strategy that not only supports our current staff but also leads on workforce planning, organisational design and HR compliance, ensuring that new schools joining the Trust are integrated seamlessly into a culture where every colleague feels valued and empowered. You will be a visible, influential leader, directly impacting the experience of every colleague, from those who have been with us for years to those joining us as part of our growth.
What We’re Looking For
- Qualifications: CIPD Level 7 qualification (or equivalent) or a willingness to gain the qualification swiftly.
- Experience: Senior HR leadership experience, with a proven ability to manage organisational growth, TUPE transfers or multi-site expansions.
- Expertise: Strong knowledge of employment law, employee relations, policies, HR and Comms best practice.
- Leadership: A track record of leading and managing change and the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Sector Knowledge: Experience in a Multi-Academy Trust or education setting is desirable but not essential.
Why join Achieve and Learn Trust?
- A lead role in the strategic expansion of the Trust.
- A supportive and ambitious leadership team.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- A strong commitment to staff wellbeing and development.
- Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
How to Apply
To find out more about this opportunity, please contact Judith Davenport, PA to the CEO at judith.davenport@achieveandlearntrust.co.uk to arrange a confidential discussion or a visit to the Trust Hub. If you would like to apply to be part of our Trust at this exciting time, please visit the Careers in our Trust page on our Trust website where you will find an application form and more information on the schools within our Trust. Please send your completed application form to: recruitment@achieveandlearntrust.com
Closing Date - Friday 26 June 2026 (midday)
Shortlisting - Monday 29 June 2026
Interview Date - Friday 3 July 2026
Trust Director of People in Urmston employer: Altrincham College
Achieve and Learn Trust is an exceptional employer that offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of education in South Manchester. With a strong commitment to staff wellbeing, flexible working arrangements, and a collaborative culture, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles while contributing to the Trust's ambitious growth plans. Joining our team means being part of a supportive leadership environment that values innovation and professional excellence, making it a rewarding place to work.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trust Director of People in Urmston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at Achieve and Learn Trust on LinkedIn or through mutual connections. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your application noticed.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the Trust's values and recent initiatives. Show us how your experience aligns with our mission of being 'Better, Together' and how you can contribute to our growth.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Director of People, you'll need to convey ideas clearly. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your pitch and boost your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at this exciting time.
We think you need these skills to ace Trust Director of People in Urmston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Trust Director of People role. Highlight your HR leadership experience and any relevant communications expertise to show us you’re the perfect fit!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; we want to see your impact! Use specific examples of how you've managed organisational growth or led change in previous roles. This will help us understand how you can contribute to our ambitious plans.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured documents that are easy to read. Make sure to proofread for any typos or errors, as attention to detail is key in this role!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. You’ll find all the necessary forms and additional info about our Trust there. Let’s make it easy for us to connect!
How to prepare for a job interview at Altrincham College
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Trust Director of People role. Brush up on your knowledge of HR best practices, employment law, and how to manage organisational growth. This will show that you’re not just interested in the position but also prepared to take it on.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led change in previous roles. Think about specific situations where you influenced stakeholders or managed a team through a transition. This is crucial for demonstrating your fit for a strategic leadership role in a growing trust.
✨Communicate Your Vision
Since this role involves enhancing the Trust's online presence, be ready to discuss your ideas for PR and marketing strategies. Share your vision for how you would develop a People Strategy that aligns with the Trust’s goals and culture, ensuring every colleague feels valued.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the Trust’s future and its growth plans. Inquire about their current challenges in HR and communications, and how they envision the new role contributing to their objectives. This shows you’re engaged and thinking ahead.
